Rockmill Brewery

I died and went to brewery heaven Saturday, when we pulled up to Rockmill Brewery despite it being a 29 degree day. I can’t even imagine how giddy I would be about Rockmill if there was green grass, blooming flowers and sunshine. Can you tell we are back in the depths of winter here in Columbus? It’s currently snowing and I’m so ready for spring and summer. 

Our visit to Rockmill only solidified those warm season desires.

If you are looking for a day-trip or an escape from the city and like to drink beer, this is the perfect getaway for you. I think in the warmer months I would call Rockmill kid friendly and the perfect place to enjoy a picnic. The grounds are expansive enough to run and there are more than enough corners and creeks to explore tucked behind the large pond.

Established on an old, 1800’s horse farm, the family run brewery has given new life to the property.

Rockmill is a small production brewery. 

Their beers are modeled after the brews of Wallonia, Belgium. Wallonia is the French-speaking region of the country located in the rural South, along the French border.

Coincidentally the water of this region contains a minerality very similar to the water profile found in the deep well located on the farm  tucked in the hills outside of Lancaster, Ohio.

Rockmill Brewery offers no food services.

They do encourage their patrons to pack picnics and bring munchies to snack on while enjoying their ales.

If you don’t feel like packing your own picnic, Rockmill recommends stopping by Katzinger’s Deli in German Village for 20% off their suggested cheese pairings.

If cheese isn’t what you have in mind to go with your beer, Pistacia Vera offers sweet treats that perfectly compliment it as well.

All seating in the old farmhouse is first come first serve.

Seating in the farmhouse is incredibly informal but very cool. It has an old fashioned yet modern vibe, with some tables set to accommodate large groups but there are more couches and family room like settings spread all over the house to get comfortable in.

The house comes complete with a usable kitchen and cats, that make themselves comfortable anywhere they want! 

Again if you had kids and needs a sink, microwave or other kitchen amenities for food preparation it is all accessible in the farmhouse.

We set-up shop in this little loft. You can see the group through the little window in the background that had pretty much taken ownership of a back room with a fire place for their gathering.

As much as I am craving warmer days the roaring fireplaces made the dark corners of the house even cozier.

My Favorite Beer was their Rugged Expanse.

Other honorable mentions, Le Cheval, War on Wheat & pretty much any of their Saison’s.

Judy was the only employee I could identify on the property the entire time we were there.

God Bless Judy for keeping up with a demanding tap room!

She was incredibly busy slinging good beers, so I didn’t want to bother her with questions, because I had a lot. So I don’t have quite as many details as I usually like to share. We didn’t see where they actually brew the beers, I am guessing it was somewhat shut down for winter, even though the tasting room was hopping!

I also wanted a shirt, hoodie and a sticker and I never saw any place to purchase gear so there are several reasons I must return as soon as this snow stays away for good.

Belgian inspired farmhouse ales.

There isn’t a bad view any direction you turn at Rockmill.

I adored the quaint little chapel, set off in the distance.

Even though you are only 30 minutes outside of Columbus, tucked in the hills of Lancaster you feel like you are worlds away from city life.

Next to the chapel is water that disappears into the woods, just asking to be explored.

Warmer days,

Rockmill Brewery has moved closer to Columbus and opened Rockmill Tavern in downtown on Front Street. I haven’t gotten a chance to try it but have heard the dining experience is divine.

Another pro tip besides being sure you visit this bad ass brewery, Rockmill Brewery is a participant of the Columbus Ale Trail. Make sure to bring your ale trail booklets to get stamped.